PIR can be a lot quieter

At Portland International Raceway's reopening, I had the pleasure of riding around the much-publicized, $2 million newly surfaced track. The smooth pavement was equal to the best asphalt job I've ever seen; the ride was exhilarating.

To residents of North Portland, however, the day heralded another noisy season for those who enjoy and are entitled to tranquility in their backyards - to garden, relax and entertain.

Users enjoy PIR. Portland is said to benefit, but how and to what extent? North Portland neighbors bear the brunt of its noise. Why should local residents suffer the consequences of a sanctioned city activity?

Noise reduction is doable. Technical and other fixes can be implemented, and a commitment equal to the track's resurfacing should be applied to noise abatement measures. Isn't Portland in the business of livability?

Peter Teneau

North Portland

Press shows bias in favor of immigrants

I find it incredible that the two major newspapers in Portland are siding with an illegal invasion that is costing local, native-born Oregonians so dearly (Law goes beyond DMV, Feb. 29).

Almost every story touching on the subject of immigration - legal or illegal - takes the side of the immigrant, whether it is the controversy over issuing illegal aliens driver's licences, the 'debate' over whether they take jobs that Americans want, whether public assistance should be provided to families of illegals, and so forth.

The vast majority of Americans don't want these people here. Of course, no one ever asked us.

In my particular neck of the woods, the Rockwood area, crime and 'ghettoization' have vastly changed the landscape. There is an unease even driving around in areas once considered middle to upper-middle class.

Many jobs that not too long ago were sought after by young, native-born Americans are reserved almost exclusively for immigrants now. Construction, roofing, fencing, auto repair, landscaping, agriculture - almost all of the blue-collar work, it seems - has gone to people who shouldn't even be here.

The press seems to avoid mention of anything remotely negative about the subject of immigration, even though it is by far the most important subject of our time. The wealthy elites and idealogues seem to be steering this ship, while those of us in steerage are stuck with the consequences.

The Tribune is missing a great opportunity in its one-sided coverage. A fresh voice that reflects the desire for change in this area would be greatly appreciated.

Dan Roberts

Gresham

On job placements, Worksystems is key

Much of the success of New Avenues for Youth's job training program for at-risk youths (Program puts troubled youths on path to jobs, Feb. 19) must be attributed to Worksystems Inc., our region's work-force development entity.

We simply could not have trained and employed so many youths without its support.

Along with the Portland Bureau of Housing and Community Development, local foundations, private donors and more than 60 local businesses that employ our at-risk youth, Worksystems has championed the cause of meaningful employment for youths in our community for many years.